In 2020, KBC Bank Ireland and the Tree Council of Ireland came together in a meaningful collaboration to launch the Team Blue Forest project—an initiative that saw the planting of 1,500 native Irish trees at Glencree, Co. Wicklow. This partnership was rooted in a shared commitment to environmental sustainability, biodiversity enhancement, and creating long-term ecological value for communities across Ireland.

For the Tree Council of Ireland, the project aligned perfectly with its mission to connect people with trees through education, advocacy, and practical action. KBC, as part of its “Green Compass” sustainability strategy, sought to take tangible steps toward reducing its environmental footprint and supporting Ireland’s natural heritage. Together, we created a lasting and regenerative landscape that symbolises the power of responsible partnership.

The site at Glencree was carefully selected, and the Tree Council provided expert guidance on native species selection and long-term forest management. A diverse mix of native trees, such as oak, birch, rowan, and holly, was planted, contributing to local biodiversity, supporting pollinators, and enhancing the area’s ecological resilience. The trees will not only absorb carbon over time but also offer habitat to birds, insects, and other native wildlife.